March 30, 2025 | 6:30 pm @ Cameo Theatre of Bristol
Exactly 100years after opening for the first time, the Cameo Theatre celebrates its centennial with Theatre Bristol’s grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday, March 30, at 6:30 p.m. at 703 State Street, Bristol, Virginia.
On March 30, 1925, the Cameo Theatre first opened its doors with a spectacular vaudeville performance, marking the beginning of a rich history of live entertainment. Now, 100 years later, Theatre Bristol is honored to bring live theaterback to this beloved stage and celebrate the legacy of storytelling that has filled this space for a century.
Help recognize those who have made this possible and hear from leaders from both cities with proclamations on this historic occasion, and learn how you can support the future Theatre Bristol and Cameo Theatre, all led by an evening ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Bristol Chamber of Commerce.
Reconnect with old friends from past productions, mingle with fellow theaterlovers in the community, and enjoy light refreshments from supporter Food City.
RSVPs are requested attheatrebristol.org.
The Cameo Theatrecelebrates its 100th anniversary this year by reopening and presenting shows, the first isTheatre Bristol’s first-ever show 60 years ago, a double-feature of “Land of Jesters” and “Rumpelstiltskin.”
Securing the beautiful Cameo Theatre is just the first step for Theatre Bristol, as the fundraising now begins to help the 60-year-old community theaterraise $1 million for the Cameo Theatre and redevelop the multi-use ARTspace Theatre.
Through vital support from People Inc Financial Services, Ninth District Development Financing Inc, Virginia Small Business Financing Authority, and Believe in Bristol, Theatre Bristol is taking its talents to the Cameo Theatre, Paramount Bristoland ARTspace stages. More funds will need to be raised.
An increase in seating by more than 500 percent will equip Theatre Bristol to eventually hire much-needed staff positions and help sustain the organization and performing arts opportunities in the community. More audiences will be able to enjoy popular shows in a beautiful venue. Increased seating will address the need to accommodate more students and avoid turning away schools from sold-out shows.
Samantha Greysays that these plans will also help Theatre Bristol and the community:
Many people helped Theatre Bristol get to this historic moment, with special thanks to Brent Buchanan and Stanley Buchanan for the detailed, thoughtful, and beautiful renovations, Sam West of People Inc Financial Services, Linda Tackett of VSBFA, Alexa Frado of True North Real Estate Advisors, Randy Kennedy, Maggie Elliot and Emily Champagne of Believe in Bristol, Architect Mike Stone, Craig Young and Megan Blevins of PROSIM Engineering, and Edd Hill, with Tommy Shrader, Claire Davis, Mack Chapman, Lois Clarke, Fred Slaughter, and Ronan King for believing in this effort, as well as all the actors, directors, crew, audiences, and donors over the years, and the staff and board of directors, Ann Vance, Nicole Intagliata, Leticia Peltzer, Mary Beth Rainero, Michael Smythe, Tina Turner, Samantha Gray, Camille Gray, and Albert Tester.
Theatre Bristol is committed to continuing to perform at Paramount Bristol as its history is closely knit to the story of Theatre Bristol and founder Cathy DeCaterina, and is meetsTheatre Bristol’s needs with critical wing space, fly space, stage spaceand seating capacity for musical productions.
The 2025 Anniversary Season includes a full season of exciting productions, camps, classesand workshops in all three venues, created specifically with our community in mind. Theatre Bristol invites people to audition and get involved in many other ways, including design, costuming, set design and construction, lighting, sound, stage management, props, publicity, assistingand more. All roles are volunteer and experience or a strong willingness to learn is welcome.
To learn more or support the Cameo Arts Capital Campaign give atTheatreBristol.org/donateby check or online, or contact Theatre Bristol atinfo@TheatreBristol.orgor 423-212-3625.
Category: Fundraiser